A career criminal who denied trying to burgle a house despite being caught reaching through a smashed door panel has been jailed.

David Gallacher was spotted acting suspiciously outside his neighbour’s house at about 7.20am on Saturday, September 9.

When the neighbour went outside to investigate he found Gallacher reaching through a smashed glass panel in the front door.

He confronted him before calling the police.

During interview Gallacher denied intending to burgle the property but admitted smashing the door panel.

He claimed to have had an argument with his girlfriend and needed somewhere to sleep, and told officers he believed the house was empty.

However, the jury at Canterbury Crown Court heard how Gallacher had a lengthy criminal record including a number of convictions for burglary.

They found him guilty yesterday.

Detective Sergeant Heidi Collins of Kent Police said: "David Gallacher has proven himself to be a dishonest man who cares little about the impact his crimes have had on his many victims over the years.

"His fanciful story about needing somewhere to sleep was quite rightly rejected by the jury, who saw him for what he is – a prolific burglar.

"On this occasion it was fortunate that the person whose home Gallacher targeted had a public-spirited neighbour who made the brave decision to confront a criminal and ensure he was not allowed to get away with what he had done."

The 47-year-old was arrested in Broadstairs Road, Broadstairs on Saturday, September 9 and has been sent to prison for 15 months.